§ 14. Mr. GibbTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills when he will respond to the proposals made in the report by Professor Smith on post-14 mathematics teaching. [169218]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeAs I have said before, I very much welcome Professor Smith's report. It provides a sound framework for determining the way ahead.
I have already accepted the broad thrust of his recommendations. I am able to report that work is in hand to advertise the appointment of a chief adviser of mathematics and Anita Straker, of the Centre of British Teachers, has been appointed on an interim basis. I affirm that I am still committed to the idea of a National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics Teaching that is separate from the science centre.
I am discussing implementation of the report in detail with Professor Smith and others and will announce my decisions on individual elements in due course.